St Margaret Pattens is an Anglican church located in the City of London, England. It is one of the 51 churches rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666. The church stands on Eastcheap, close to Monument station.
Name
The unusual suffix "Pattens" refers to the wooden clogs or pattens that were once sold in the nearby market in medieval times, as it was located in an area frequented by shoemakers and cobblers. These pattens were worn to protect shoes from the mud and dirt of the unpaved streets.
History
The original church on this site dated back to at least the 11th century. It was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. The current building was constructed between 1684 and 1687, under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren. Unlike many other Wren churches, St Margaret Pattens largely escaped damage during the Second World War, preserving much of its original interior.
Architecture
The church is notable for its slender, elegant spire, which is the only one designed by Wren that still survives in its original form. The interior features a rare set of 17th-century wooden reredos, pulpit, and font cover, all attributed to the workshops of Grinling Gibbons. It retains its box pews, which are also characteristic of the period. The church has a relatively plain exterior, but its spire is a distinctive landmark in the City.
Modern Role
Today, St Margaret Pattens continues to serve as an active parish church within the Diocese of London. It has strong ties to the Livery Companies of the City of London, particularly the Worshipful Company of Framework Knitters, who use it as their guild church. It is also known for its traditional services and its role as a quiet oasis amidst the bustling financial district.